Authors
Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, P.O. Box 11155-9465, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are a special subset of carbon nanoparticles with average dimensions about 10 nm. Their unique properties include low toxicity, chemical inertness, excellent biocompatibility, and tunable luminescence behavior by surface modification. There are several sources for synthesis of CQDs in nature, each of which has different effects on the properties of these particles. So far, several methods have been used to synthesize CQDs including laser ablation, microwave radiation, hydrothermal reaction, electrochemical oxidation, reflux method and ultrasonication. Due to the small particle size, CQDs have strong tunable fluorescent properties. The usage of these particles has been examined in various fields such as photocatalysis, ion sensor, biological imaging, heavy metal detection, adsorption treatment, supercapacitor, membrane fabrication, and water pollution treatment. Research works on the field of using CQDs in polymer materials, especially CQDs-reinforced composite materials have received attention in recent years. This is due to unique properties of carbon quantum dots such as renewability, stability, high mechanical properties, low weight, and comparatively low cost. This review article is aimed to discuss the physical, chemical and stability properties of CQDs, raw materials and synthesis methods as well as their potential applications in various fields, especially in the rubber industry. Finally, recent developments in the field of using carbon quantum dots in rubber products and their effects on the improvement of mechanical and dynamic properties are reviewed.
Keywords
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